VW Polo VI 2017-2025: How to Remove the Bumpers

Model Name and Generation

The Volkswagen Polo VI is the sixth generation of the popular compact hatchback, produced since 2017. In different countries, the model is also known as the Polo Mk6 or simply Polo (without the generation index, as previous versions have already been discontinued).

 

Production Years and Model Code

Production of the Polo VI began in 2017 and continues to the present (2025). The model is built on the MQB A0 platform, with the body code AW (for the hatchback). Unlike the previous generation (Polo V, series 6R/6C), the sixth generation features a more modern architecture, allowing for increased dimensions and improved technical characteristics.

 

Body Type and Modifications

The main body style is a 5-door hatchback, but in some countries, a sedan version was also offered under the name Virtus (in India and Latin America) or Polo Sedan (in Russia until 2022).

 

Main Modifications:

  • Polo – Base version with petrol engines: 1.0 MPI (80 HP), 1.0 TSI (95–115 HP), and 1.5 TSI (150 HP).
  • Polo GTI – Sport version with a 2.0 TSI (200–207 HP) and a 6-speed DSG.
  • Polo Beats – Special edition with an upgraded Beats by Dre audio system.
  • Polo R-Line – Variant with a more aggressive design and sporty exterior elements.
  • Polo Allstar – Limited edition with additional features.

In some countries (e.g., China), the Polo VI was produced in an extended version called Polo Plus, with a longer wheelbase.

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: PP+E/P-TD10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew four screws (fastened top to bottom) securing the upper part of the front bumper to the bracket.
  3. From underneath the car, unscrew nine screws (fastened bottom to top) and release two metal brackets (marked with blue arrows) securing the lower part to the engine compartment shield and wheel liners.
  4. Turn the front part of the wheel inward toward the fender.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew six screws (three on each side) securing the wheel liners and one screw (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (marked with blue arrows; pull the corners toward yourself).
  7. Release the clips under the headlights (marked with blue arrows; pull toward yourself).
  8. Remove the front bumper by pulling it forward (do this with an assistant to avoid tearing wires or damaging the paint on the fenders).
  9. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the equipment.

Front bumper mounting locations VW Polo VI 2017-2025

VW Polo VI 2017-2025 Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. In the trunk, open the pockets in the trim (to access the rear side of the taillights).
  3. Unscrew the fasteners and remove the taillights (held by clips in the fenders, marked with blue arrows. Pull toward yourself. Do not use metal tools to release the clips, as this may scratch the paint or damage the taillights).
  4. From underneath the car, remove four expanding rivets (first unscrew the center part, then remove the rivet) securing the lower part of the rear bumper.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the wheel liners (rear part).
  6. Bend the wheel liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (marked with blue arrows; pull the corners toward yourself).
  8. Release the clips under the taillights (marked with blue arrows; use a flathead screwdriver).
  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward (ensure no wires are torn).
  10. Disconnect the license plate light and (if installed) parking sensor connectors.

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Polo VI 2017-2025

Rear bumper mounting diagram VW Polo VI 2017-2025

Model Description

The sixth-generation Polo is larger than its predecessor: length increased to 4053 mm, and the wheelbase grew to 2548 mm. This improved cabin space and trunk capacity (now 351 liters).

 

Design:

  • Sharper body lines.
  • Wide radiator grille in the style of the Golf VII.
  • LED optics (in top trim levels).

 

Technical Features:

  • Front suspension: McPherson; rear suspension: semi-independent torsion beam (multi-link in the GTI).
  • Transmission options: 5- and 6-speed manual, 7-speed DSG (for TSI engines).
  • Available systems: Front Assist (emergency braking), Lane Assist (lane keeping), and Adaptive Cruise Control.

 

Engines:

  • 1.0 MPI (80 HP) – Basic naturally aspirated engine, weak but fuel-efficient.
  • 1.0 TSI (95–115 HP) – Turbocharged engine with good dynamics.
  • 1.5 TSI (150 HP) – Most powerful option (excluding the GTI).
  • 2.0 TSI (200–207 HP) – Engine for the Polo GTI.

 

Interesting Facts

Polo VI in Russia

  • The model was assembled at the Kaluga plant until 2022.
  • In 2020, the Polo GT with a 1.4 TSI (125 HP) was introduced but quickly discontinued.
  • After Volkswagen's exit from Russia, Polo production ceased.

Polo GTI vs. Golf GTI

  • The Polo GTI (AW) uses the EA888 engine (same as the Golf GTI VII) but with reduced power.
  • 0–100 km/h acceleration takes 6.5 seconds—faster than some hot hatches from the past decade.

Electric Polo?

  • Volkswagen planned an electric Polo but later abandoned the idea in favor of the ID.3.

Polo in Motorsport

  • The Polo GTI R5, based on the Polo VI, was developed for WRC-2.

Chinese Polo Plus

  • In China, the Polo VI was sold with an extended wheelbase (+94 mm), making it a competitor to the Skoda Rapid.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Polo VI is an evolution of the compact hatchback, retaining affordability while gaining premium features. Since 2017, it has remained one of the most popular cars in Europe and other markets, though its era in Russia has ended.